Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, baseball’s stolen base king and 1-time Blue Jay, dead at 65

Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, known as baseball’s “Man of Steal,” passed away at the age of 65. The Oakland Athletics, where Henderson spent a significant portion of his career, expressed shock and heartbreak at his sudden death. Henderson’s cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

Throughout his illustrious 25-year career, Henderson left an indelible mark on the sport of baseball. He was a ten-time All-Star, a two-time World Series champion, and an MVP. However, it was his base-stealing prowess that truly set him apart. In his first full season in the majors in 1980, he set the tone by stealing 100 bases, breaking Ty Cobb’s AL single-season record.

Henderson’s speed and agility on the basepaths were unmatched. He shattered records with his 130 steals in 1982, surpassing Lou Brock’s previous mark. Henderson went on to lead the league in steals for seven consecutive seasons and ultimately set the all-time career steals record with 1,406.

One of Henderson’s most memorable moments came in 1991 when he broke Lou Brock’s career steals record. He famously yanked third base from the ground and declared himself the greatest base stealer of all time.

Aside from his stolen base records, Henderson also holds the record for most runs scored in a career with 2,295. He was a prolific leadoff hitter, belting 81 leadoff home runs. Henderson’s unique batting stance and aggressive baserunning style made him a formidable opponent on the field.

Born on Christmas Day in 1958 in Chicago, Henderson grew up in Oakland and excelled in multiple sports. Despite being a sought-after football recruit, he chose baseball at the urging of his mother, who believed it would lead to a longer and more successful career.

Henderson’s career took him to various teams, including the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Boston Red Sox. He continued to excel well into his late 30s, leading the league in steals and walks at age 39.

In 2003, Henderson retired from baseball after a storied career that spanned over two decades. His impact on the game was immeasurable, and his legacy as one of the greatest base stealers of all time will forever be remembered.

The baseball community mourns the loss of a legend in Rickey Henderson, whose electrifying speed and dynamic playstyle revolutionized the leadoff position in the sport. He will be dearly missed but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.